Hideo (Hank) Hara, who served as executive vice president, tire development and technology with Bridgestone America at its Akron Technical Center until returning to Japan in mid-October 2006, is to assume the position of vice president and officer, OE tire sales. His role prior to July 1 is that of vice president and officer, OE tire sales and motorsport.
Other changes are as follows:
• Akira Nozawa has taken on the role of vice president and officer, chief financial officer, finance and IT and network;
• Hideki Yokoyama has been appointed to the position of vice president and officer, quality;
• Hiroshi Yamaguchi has been appointed vice president and officer, safety and environment and motorsport;
• Mikio Masunaga has been appointed to the role of vice president and officer, tire research and material development.
